31 MARCH 1928, Page 30

JOHN BARKER'S PROFITS.

The accounts of John Barker and Co. for the past year show a slight reduction in the gross profits and rather a con- siderable increase in expenses. Owing to the fact, however, that the amount to be provided for depreciation was about £40,000 less, the net profit shows just a small increase at £450,670, and accordingly the dividend is maintained at

the rate of 20 per cent. To the General Reserve the amount allocated is only £65,000 against £100,000, but, on the other hand, £7,000 more than last year is placed to goodwill and the amount allocated for premises and fittings is £60,000 against only £20,590. The carry forward of £289,818 is just a little more than a year ago.

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